The Director General of the General Company for Ports of Iraq, Dr. Eng. Farhan Al-Fartousi, announced today, Monday, March , 2025, the details of the new international transit plan that will make Iraq the shortest land passage between the Arabian Gulf and the Mediterranean Sea. This move will contribute to accelerating international trade between the Arabian Gulf and Europe. He clarified that a pilot transit operation had been carried out, which would be the first step towards subsequent government procedures to officially adopt this route.
The Director General stated, “Iraq has already initiated a pilot operation to open the transit route between Europe and Turkey through the Turkish Port of Mersin towards the Ports of Um Qasr and from there to the Arabian Gulf. This route has been closed since 1981.”
He emphasized, “This step will serve as an important trial in preparation for the permanent reopening of this route, contributing to enhancing international trade and positioning Iraq on the global commercial transport map.”
He highlighted that “the new international orientation will transform Iraq into a major transit point, enhancing the role of Al Faw Grand Port upon its completion, which was established for this purpose.” He added, “The international transit plan mainly relies on improving infrastructure such as roads and railways. According to our feasibility study, 40% of the commercial movement through the rail and road development route will be transit, while 60% will be internal trade.”
He pointed out that “this trial is an initial preparatory step that will be followed by high-level government directives to overcome potential difficulties, in addition to publishing a brochure explaining the transit movement mechanism and its pricing.”
This trial is part of Iraq’s strategies to develop the maritime transport sector and strengthen its position as a central commercial hub in the region, opening new horizons for the Iraqi economy and providing significant opportunities for economic development if effectively invested.
